As the sun sets on Friday evening, families around the world come together to celebrate the start of the Jewish Sabbath. For many, this special day is marked with a delicious and comforting meal shared with loved ones. In this article, we’ll explore 18 cozy Shabbat dinner recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
From classic challah bread to slow-cooked brisket with caramelized onions, these mouthwatering dishes will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, our recipes offer something for everyone. So go ahead, gather your loved ones around the table, and get ready to create some unforgettable Shabbat moments.
Classic Challah Bread
This traditional Jewish bread is a staple of many cultures and cuisines. With its rich, buttery flavor and soft, fluffy texture, this challah bread recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a braid or round loaf.
7. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Brisket with Caramelized Onions
Rich and tender slow-cooked brisket paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions – a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket, fat side up
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season brisket with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear brisket for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add sliced onions to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
5. Add brown sugar to the pot and stir to combine with onions.
6. Return brisket to the pot and cover with a lid.
7. Transfer pot to preheated oven and cook for 2-3 hours or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Serve: Slice brisket against the grain and serve with caramelized onions spooned over the top.
Matzo Ball Soup
This classic Jewish dish is a comforting and nourishing meal perfect for any occasion. With the addition of tender matzo balls, this soup is sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 matzo balls (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and water, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.
5. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with matzo balls on top.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken
Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken: A flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of roasted garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a deliciously moist chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush with the garlic-herb mixture, making sure each breast is coated evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Tzimmes
Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish stew that’s perfect for any occasion. This sweet and tangy version combines the classic flavors of carrots, prunes, and honey with a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup pitted prunes
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the sliced carrots, pitted prunes, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Gefilte Fish
Traditional gefilte fish is a staple of Jewish cuisine, typically made with store-bought fish balls or mix. However, making your own gefilte fish from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. This recipe yields 6-8 pieces of flavorful and tender fish patties.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia), boned and scaled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the fish into small pieces and grind them in a food processor until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground fish, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Shape the mixture into 6-8 patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Potato Kugel
A classic Jewish dish, kugel is a savory potato pudding that’s perfect as a side or main course. This crispy version adds a satisfying crunch to the traditional soft and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the potato mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots
A sweet and sticky glaze elevates these roasted carrots to a new level of deliciousness.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot pieces with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
5. While the carrots are roasting, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt.
6. After the carrots have roasted for 15 minutes, remove them from the oven and brush with the honey glaze.
7. Return the carrots to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
This classic comfort dish is a perfect representation of hearty cooking at its finest. The fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs are slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful red wine sauce, making it a show-stopping main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
7. Serve with the rich red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Fresh Herb and Lemon Roasted Salmon
This recipe combines the bright flavors of fresh herbs and lemon with the richness of roasted salmon for a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and garlic.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Warm Lentil and Vegetable Stew
Cozy up with this hearty, comforting stew that’s packed with nutritious lentils and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and zucchini; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot. Pour in the water or broth.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Golden Roasted Garlic Hummus
Elevate your hummus game with this sweet and savory twist! Golden roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor to this classic dip, perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves golden roasted garlic (see roasting instructions below)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Drain and rinse chickpeas. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, roasted garlic, salt, and water. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Bourekas
A delicious and savory pastry filled with spinach and cheese, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach leaves, feta cheese, and cheddar cheese.
4. Brush one sheet of phyllo dough with olive oil.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture at the top of the phyllo dough, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Fold the edges of the phyllo dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until all ingredients are used up.
8. Place bourekas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple and Honey Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the crunch of apples with the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large apple, diced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together diced apple, honey, and thyme.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the apple-honey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the tops of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Couscous
This recipe adds a burst of Moroccan spices to the classic North African couscous, creating a vibrant and aromatic side dish perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan.
2. Add the couscous, cover, and turn off heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then set aside.
4. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked couscous and spice mixture. Toss to coat.
7. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Babka
Rich, buttery dough filled with dark chocolate chips and topped with a crispy streusel topping – this Decadent Chocolate Babka is the perfect treat for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, flour, sugar, and salt; mix until smooth.
3. Knead dough for 10 minutes.
4. Place dough in greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap; rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out dough, spread chocolate chips evenly, and roll up.
7. Place on baking sheet, top with streusel topping (softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon), and bake for 40-45 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herbed Rice Pilaf with Almonds
A fragrant and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this herbed rice pilaf is elevated by the crunch of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the herb mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in chopped almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Applesauce
This sweet and comforting applesauce is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. The warmth of cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg will fill your home with a cozy aroma, making it a delightful accompaniment to your favorite snacks or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
2. Add the water to the mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture to your desired consistency.
4. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with your family and friends! This article shares 18 delicious Shabbat dinner recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic challah bread and slow-cooked brisket to roasted garlic chicken and honey-glazed carrots, there’s something for everyone. Try making homemade gefilte fish or crispy potato kugel for a satisfying side dish. Or, indulge in decadent chocolate babka or warm cinnamon-spiced applesauce for dessert. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
